Greenwich is home to several iconic maritime institutions. Royal Naval College is a major symbol of Britain’s seafaring heritage and the architectural centerpiece of Greenwich. It opened as a hospital for sailors in 1712 and served as the Royal Navy’s educational institution from 1873 to 1998. Today, its hallowed halls whisper of the days when Britannia ruled the waves. The National Maritime Museum is the world’s largest, chronicling England’s seafaring endeavors in its compelling collection of art, maps and countless memorabilia, including the first marine chronometer.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Classic Monuments of London
Take a classic tour by some of London’s most famous landmarks, accompanied by a renowned Blue Badge licensed guide.
The Tower of London
Explore the intriguing past of one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks.
Ceremony of the Keys at the London Tower
Enjoy a very special after-hours visit of the Tower of London and experience a unique, centuries-old tradition.
Imperial War Museum & Churchill’s War Rooms
Discover the undercover work of Britain’s Special Forces and the Allies, from World War I to conflicts of today.
The Royal Households of London
Explore the households of England’s royal family during a scenic drive and tour of Buckingham Palace.
The World of Shakespeare
Immerse yourself in the world of William Shakespeare during a private tour of the reconstructed Globe Theater.
Southwark & the Mayflower Trail
Discover the London Borough of Southwark’s maritime tradition and ties to the Pilgrims and the Mayflower.
Thames River Cruise
Witness one of the world’s most iconic skylines during an evening cruise along the River Thames.
Eltham Palace House & Gardens
See a fascinating blend of medieval architecture and Art Deco interiors during a guided visit to Eltham Palace.
London Panoramic & London Eye
See London’s signature sights during a panoramic drive, and enjoy a different perspective from atop the London Eye.
Greenwich Gin
Delve into the world of gin production and enjoy a tasting of celebrated flavors during a visit to Greenwich Gin.
Videos
Highclere Castle
Join Karine at the “real Downton Abbey,” the historic and renowned Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England, home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”
Join Karine to meet one of the longest serving residents on the Highclere Castle estate. And join them on a journey of joy and firsts, taking delight in the smaller things in life.
Explore Britain’s Great Homes, Gardens and Gin
Step inside the iconic British estates well known to PBS viewers, including Highclere Castle, the “real Downton Abbey”; Wolf Hall’s Broughton Castle; and Chavenage House, better known as Trenwith in Poldark. Beyond these impressive homes, learn the story behind the legendary Bombay Sapphire gin at its historic distillery.
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Pat the Painter
Meet Pat Withers, one of the castle’s favorite, most colorful characters, who came to Highclere as a teenager and never left. As the longest serving staff member at Highclere, she’s worked for three generations of the Carnarvon family.
Tutankhamen and Highclere Castle
Uncover the fascinating history behind the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter and George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, and get an exclusive look at Highclere Castle’s collection of Egyptian relics.
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Mike the Beekeeper
Join Karine and Finse as they explore the world of bees with Mike Withers, a thirty-year member of the Highclere staff, whose passion for these hard-working, misunderstood insects spans 60 years.
Explore Chavenage House, the home from the PBS series “Poldark”
The friendly, very personable, longtime owners of Chavenage House, welcome you into this quintessential English estate, tucked away in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Churchill’s Britain
Discover the remarkable life and times of revered British statesman Sir Winston Churchill. During this 5-night London extension with Viking, gain Privileged Access to Cabinet War Rooms; visit Churchill’s private Chartwell estate and his birthplace at Blenheim Palace; learn how the British broke the Nazis’ secret code at Bletchley Park and much more.
A Year in Books
Give the gift of knowledge with a special book subscription service from iconic London bookseller Heywood Hill, curator of Viking ships’ onboard libraries.
Visit the University of Oxford
Join Karine as she goes behind the scenes at the University of Oxford, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions and alma mater to kings and presidents.
